Modulating the Gut–Skin Axis in Dermatological Diseases: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications of Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics, and Postbiotics

February 2026 in “ International Journal of Clinical Dermatology ”

Nencho Smilov, Ivan Vasilevski, Yoanna Velevska, Irina Yungareva, Yoanna Petkova, Sonya Marina

gut-skin axis atopic dermatitis acne rosacea psoriasis probiotics prebiotics synbiotics postbiotics Lactobacillus Bifidobacterium skin barrier function inflammatory responses

Studysummary This review found that microbiota-targeted interventions, particularly certain strains of probiotics, are associated with improvements in skin conditions, most notably in pediatric atopic dermatitis, but their efficacy varies across other dermatological diseases. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The document reviews the gut–skin axis and the potential of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics in treating dermatological diseases. It highlights that these interventions show promise, particularly in atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, with probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium improving skin barrier function and inflammatory responses. However, evidence for conditions such as alopecia and chronic urticaria is limited. The efficacy of these therapies is highly strain-specific and depends on formulation, dosage, and duration. Postbiotics are noted for their stability and safety, especially for topical use. The review emphasizes the need for more targeted clinical trials to better understand these interventions' roles in dermatology.

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